It is estimated that in the UK one in six couples (that’s around 3.5 million people) will be affected by fertility problems at some point.  Infertility is diagnosed when a couple fails to become pregnant after two years of trying naturally.  From that, 30% of infertility cases are determined to be due to the female, 30% are down to male factors, 10% is considered to relate to both the male and female, 5% a result of other factors, leaving 25% of infertility cases unexplained.

However, a diagnosis of infertility need not be a life sentence, and plenty can be done to improve chances of conception (either naturally or through assisted reproduction techniques such as IVF) whether there is a known reason for fertility problems, or you have been classed as having unexplained infertility. 

A key component to fertility success centres on making healthy egg and sperm cells and providing a hospitable uterine environment.  All three of these factors help improve the chances of fertilisation and implantation occurring and reduce the risk of miscarriage.  The DNA in both egg and sperm cells need to be healthy (for example, 40-90% of IVF eggs are estimated to be chromosomally abnormal). DNA damage is linked to reduced fertility and this is just one example of where nutritional therapy can be helpful.  Free radical damage (or oxidation) is linked to DNA damage in egg and sperm cells.  Although free radicals are a natural by-product of metabolism, some dietary and lifestyle choices may elevate levels and work against reproductive health.  These choices include alcohol consumption, burned or barbecued foods and fried foods (amongst others).  On the other hand, vegetables and fruits contain substances that quench these free radicals.  Examples include quercetin in apples and lycopene in tomatoes, both of which are classed as antioxidants. 

Other nutrients that work to protect DNA from oxidation include zinc and vitamin E, and folic acid is essential to DNA health in both egg and sperm cells.  Vitamin and mineral status should always be considered when optimising reproductive health and blood levels can be easily measured by a nutritional therapist.  Nutrients don’t work in isolation – the optimal approach is to achieve comprehensive nutrition which should primarily come from a balanced diet, tailored around individual dietary and lifestyle analysis, and a bespoke supplement programme. 

If you want to improve your chances of getting pregnant - either naturally or though IVF - we believe it is essential that you consider nutritional therapy as part of your support plan.